[gow589]

I am putting together my own wiring harness. I want to use some solid state relays in place of conventional relays for things like headlights, etc.

Anyone have a good source?

[302 Z28]

Mouser , Digi-Key or Allied Electronics

Vince

[Joe G]

Mouser Electronics has a good selection....But they cost about 30 times more than an equivalent electromechanical relay.

I've seen them cheap (like $5 ea.) at a local industrial surplus store, but they were used and in unknown condition.

[302 Z28]

Most solid state relays cannot handle the loads for automotive use, at least any that would be economical ($$) to use.

Vince

[gow589]

"Mouser , Digi-Key or Allied Electronics"

I use those regularly for stuff but was more curious which relays people re using.

When you spend thousands on an extensive car build a few extra dollars for a solid state relay is not a big concern. I see people dump $50k in a car and they won't spend an extra $100 for the better tires.

Some one turned me on to these. I may give them a try. I think a 100amps with 240 amp surge will handle the load.

[gow589]

Posted too fast. The link:

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=SY4086

[gow589]

http://www.futurlec.com/

Has em for $28.

[Joe G]

That's a good deal. But I would still think twice about using solid state relays in place of standard electromechanical relays in an automotive application. The reason being; when a standard relay is off, it doesn't draw any amperage at all, but a solid state relay 'leaks' current when off. This might only be 10 or 20 mA, but if you use 8 or 10 relays in the car, this leakage current can add up to the point that it could run your battery down if the car is left parked for more than a few days. I believe that is the primary reason they aren't used in the automotive industry.

Just my $ .02

[gow589]

I am still running them through a high current master and will be fused for their application so that won't be an issue.

The electrical system I am organizing is not completely conventional. It is going in a Pantera and I have a lot of "other" items. Trans fluid pump, radiator fans, electric power steering pump, etc.

The car originally had a fuse box under the dash but I am actually dividing it into to fuse banks; one in the front trunk and one on the rear firewall (mid engine car).

[T-bucket23]

Originally Posted by 302 Z28

Most solid state relays cannot handle the loads for automotive use, at least any that would be economical ($$) to use.

Vince

They usually dont handle mistakes very well either.

[amature]

try looking in mcmaster carr or grainger they both carry ssr's

[Hoptup32]

Hella makes the smaller "bosch style" four pin solid state relay Hella and Hella2

I always use good, name brand, bosch style relays when wiring a vehicle and have never had a problem with one going bad. I can't see the justification for the additional expense of the solid state relays. They do look somewhat cool and operate quiet, but I don't have a disposable income.